BBQ Islands: Your Guide to Building the Perfect Outdoor Cooking Space

A BBQ island transforms your backyard from basic to extraordinary. Unlike a standalone grill sitting on your patio, a BBQ island creates a dedicated cooking zone that becomes the natural gathering spot for family and friends. If you're considering adding one to your Phoenix or Scottsdale home, here's what you need to know about design, costs, and what makes a BBQ island worth the investment.

 

What Makes a BBQ Island Different?

A BBQ island is a permanent outdoor cooking station that combines a built-in grill with additional features like storage, countertops, and other appliances. Think of it as a kitchen counter designed specifically for outdoor cooking. Most islands include prep space, storage drawers or cabinets, and many homeowners add extras like side burners, refrigerators, or even a pizza oven.

The key difference? Integration. Everything is within arm's reach, the layout is intentional, and the entire setup feels permanent and polished. You're not running back inside for tools or ingredients—it's all right there.

 

Why Arizona Is Perfect for BBQ Islands

With over 300 days of sunshine annually, investing in a BBQ island in Phoenix or Scottsdale actually makes sense from a usage standpoint. You're not building something that sits unused for half the year. The local lifestyle leans heavily into outdoor living, and a BBQ island fits naturally into this setup—often becoming the centerpiece of weekend gatherings, game day parties, and evening dinners.

Property values benefit too. A well-designed BBQ island adds functional outdoor square footage that buyers in this market actively seek.

 

Custom vs. Prefab BBQ Islands

When planning your BBQ island, you'll face a fundamental choice: custom-built or prefabricated.

Custom BBQ Islands

A custom BBQ island is designed and built specifically for your backyard. The layout, dimensions, materials, and features are all tailored to fit your space and cooking style. Want an L-shaped island that wraps around a corner? A curved design that follows your pool's edge? These are only possible with custom construction.

The tradeoff is time and cost. Custom BBQ islands require design work and skilled installation. But the result is a one-of-a-kind outdoor kitchen that feels like it was always meant to be there. Our team at Over The Fire BBQ specializes in custom outdoor kitchen builds throughout the Phoenix metro area.

Prefab BBQ Islands

Prefabricated BBQ islands come in modular units or complete packages that are ready to install. They're faster to set up, usually less expensive, and still deliver a professional appearance. These islands work particularly well for smaller patios or situations where you want to get cooking quickly.

If you're interested in exploring both options, our article on custom vs. prefab outdoor kitchens breaks down the differences in detail.

 

Essential BBQ Island Components

The Grill

This is the centerpiece. Gas grills are popular for their convenience and precise temperature control, while charcoal grills appeal to traditionalists who want that distinct smoky flavor. A 36-inch grill provides enough cooking surface for most families, while 42-inch or larger models work better if you frequently entertain.

We carry premium brands like Alfresco, Coyote, Napoleon, and Artisan—all built specifically for outdoor installation and Arizona's climate conditions.

Counter Space & Storage

You need somewhere to set down plates, cutting boards, and ingredients. Most BBQ islands include at least 18-24 inches of counter space on either side of the grill. Granite, concrete, and tile all work well in Arizona's climate.

Cabinets and drawers keep your grilling tools, seasonings, and propane tanks organized. Stainless steel storage resists rust and weather damage better than painted options.

Popular Add-Ons

• Side burners for cooking sauces or heating sides without running inside
• Outdoor refrigerators to keep drinks cold and eliminate trips inside
• Pizza ovens for authentic wood-fired pizza—we stock Gozney and Coyote pizza ovens that integrate beautifully
• Smokers for slow-cooking brisket and ribs—check out our smoker selection
• Bar seating to turn your BBQ island into a social hub

 

Material Choices for Arizona's Climate

Arizona presents unique challenges: intense UV exposure, extreme heat, occasional heavy rain, and major temperature swings between day and night.

Stainless steel frames resist rust and handle heat without warping. They're more expensive upfront but require minimal maintenance and last for decades.

Stucco exteriors are traditional in Southwest architecture and hold up well. Stone veneer creates an upscale appearance with almost no maintenance. Granite countertops handle heat well and resist UV damage with proper sealing.

 

Cost Expectations

Here's a realistic breakdown of what to expect:

Basic BBQ Island: $3,000 - $8,000
Simple prefab or entry-level custom island with mid-range 36" grill, basic storage, and minimal counter space.

Mid-Range BBQ Island: $8,000 - $18,000
Quality 36-42" grill from brands like Coyote or Napoleon, storage cabinets, adequate counter workspace, side burner, granite countertop, and professional installation.

Premium BBQ Island: $18,000 - $35,000+
High-end 42"+ grill, outdoor refrigerator, pizza oven or smoker integration, sink with running water, extensive storage, custom stonework, multiple cooking zones, ambient lighting, and bar seating.

 

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Insufficient counter space is the most common complaint. Plan for at least 18 inches of clear counter on each side of the grill—more if possible.

Forgetting about wind can ruin cooking sessions. Position your grill with Arizona's dominant wind direction in mind, or add a partial wall as a windbreak.

Inadequate storage becomes obvious quickly. You'll accumulate grilling tools, cleaning supplies, and seasonings. Plan for more storage than you think you need.

Skipping professional installation might save money initially but often leads to problems with gas lines, electrical work, or structural issues. Professional installation ensures everything is safe, code-compliant, and warrantied.

 

Getting Started with Your BBQ Island

Ready to move forward? Here's the process:

1. Assess your space and measure your patio
2. Define your cooking style and determine which features matter most
3. Set a realistic budget including equipment, materials, and installation
4. Choose between custom or prefab based on your needs
5. Select quality equipment and weather-appropriate materials
6. Work with professionals for design, permitting, and installation

Our team at Over The Fire BBQ handles every step, from initial design consultation through final installation. We help Phoenix and Scottsdale homeowners create outdoor cooking spaces that match their lifestyle and property. We carry all the major brands and components needed for a complete BBQ island build.

 

Transform Your Backyard Today

A BBQ island represents a significant investment in your home and lifestyle. Done right, it becomes the gathering place for family dinners, weekend cookouts, and celebrations you'll remember for years. Arizona's climate and outdoor-focused lifestyle make it one of the best locations in the country for this type of upgrade.

Whether you're grilling burgers on a Tuesday evening or hosting a full weekend cookout with slow-smoked brisket and wood-fired pizza, your BBQ island makes it all easier and more enjoyable.

 

Ready to start planning your BBQ island?

Visit our Phoenix showroom or contact our team to discuss your outdoor kitchen project. We'll help you create a space that fits your backyard, your budget, and the way you actually cook.